There is certainly enough stress in the world right now, and everyone has a different way to cope with it. When I read the news, and then add on my personal problems, it is no wonder I can’t control anxiety.
When I am dealing with arthritis pain, which is pretty much all the time, my anxiety is off the charts. I don’t do well with patience and want my medication to take effect immediately.
Getting in touch with your five senses has a calming effect, and when you’re calmer, your mind isn’t as focused on your arthritis pain. You may overeat, increase alcohol consumption, or drop your exercise program.
Some days you may feel like not even leaving your house so you have plenty of time to worry and make a plan for re-joining the human race.
This is how using your five senses can help control anxiety:
Touch
Your skin is the largest organ in your body and it is very sensitive to external stimuli. This makes it a powerful tool in your ability to relax, unwind, and find relief from the stress that you’re feeling.
That is why it feels so good to take a warm shower or go for an invigorating swim. Block out extra time to stretch your muscles, do some yoga poses, or get a soothing massage. I prefer the foot massage but whatever works for you.
What better way to help control your anxiety than playing with your pet? Those tummy rubs and playing fetch are beneficial to both of you. How about taking it up a notch and going for a walk. What dog doesn’t like a walk?
Taste
This self-soothing sense can trip you up because when you are stressed it’s easy to turn to comfort food. Sure, it tastes good, but you don’t want to have to shed some excess pounds.
Try sucking on hard candy, or sip a soothing cup of tea. You can eat a regular healthy meal from the five food groups to maintain a healthy body and mind.
Smell
Of course, being the foodie that I am, when the air conditioning is turned on, I can smell my neighbor’s barbequing tasty meat, and I just want to run next door with a plate and dive in.
Smelling beautiful flowers from your garden or at a florist’s shop may be soothing to your frazzled nerves. Spray lavender oil on your pillow for a better night’s sleep.
Get outside and smell the fresh air. Take a walk, work in your garden, or just sit on the porch and people watch.
Sound
Here is where a little dance music can change things up. Dance inside if you feel self-conscious. You may not be able to bust some moves like the folks on “Soul Train”, so just shake your booty in a way that works for you.
If the weather is right, hit the beach and listen to the waves. So relaxing and if you combine it with a walk, you can count it as your exercise session for the day.
Sight
Distractions can be a good thing, particularly when you are experiencing arthritis pain. Sometimes it’s best to just find something amusing or interesting to look at.
According to the Mayo Clinic, “laughter can increase oxygen to the heart, lungs, and muscles, increase the endorphins that are released by your brain, improve your mood and reduce physical pain.”
One of my favorite distractions is reading books. I have rediscovered my love of reading and you can buy books at a discount from Amazon. Watching a funny movie or television show allows you to think about something else besides your current problems.
I love to take a car ride to an area I haven’t explored before, and get ice cream while I am out.
Summary
So now you know how the five senses can help you control anxiety, and these ideas won’t break the bank.
Control what you can, and know that you are strong and confident and will be able to handle any situation that comes your way.
